Explore Denver's History of Boom and Bust on a Self-Guided Tour
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Discover Denver’s fascinating history with the Denver's Booms and Busts: A Self-Guided Walking Tour. This engaging audio experience takes you through the city’s transformation from a gold-rush outpost to a thriving capital of the Rockies. Along the way, you'll hear stories of how Denver survived economic crashes, railroad bypasses, and urban renewal efforts.
Starting at Coors Field, you'll explore iconic sites like the Dairy Block, a former milk-bottling plant now turned vibrant food hall and boutique hotel, and Wynkoop Brewing, which helped revive Denver’s historic neighborhood in the 1980s. The tour continues to Union Station, a symbol of Denver’s railroad history, and then down the lively 16th Street Mall.
As you reach Larimer Square, Denver’s oldest block, learn how a chance encounter in the 1960s saved it from demolition. The journey ends at the Federal Reserve Bank, where a free museum offers a behind-the-scenes look at currency processing—plus a fun souvenir of shredded cash to take home.
In just about an hour, you’ll get a vivid picture of Denver’s resilience and reinvention, all at your own pace with this flexible, self-guided tour.
Frequently asked questions
How long does the tour last?
The tour takes approximately 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes, depending on your pace.
What languages is the tour available in?
The tour is offered in English.
Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, it's designed for adults aged 6 to 99 and is accessible for all physical fitness levels.
What do I need to participate?
You’ll need a smartphone and headphones to enjoy the audio tour. The tour includes offline access to maps and geodata, so no internet is required during your walk.
Can I explore at my own pace?
Absolutely. This self-guided tour gives you the flexibility to walk, pause, and explore each stop whenever you like.
Is there a cancellation policy?
Yes. You can get a full refund if you cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled start time. Cancellations made less than 24 hours in advance are non-refundable.
Free cancellation
Cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled start for a full refund.
Reserve now
Check a date here, then finish booking with our partner. Payment options are confirmed at checkout.
Duration 1 hour – 1 hour 15 min
Check availability to see start times.
Guided experience
English
Key facts
What's included
Included
- Directions to the starting point so the tour begins smoothly
- Lifetime access to the tour in English, both before your booking date and afterward
- Offline access to audio, maps, and geodata
- Mobile app compatible with Android and iOS
- Freedom to explore at your own pace with a GPS-guided experience
Not included
- Smartphone and headphones
Itinerary
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Stop 1
This self-guided audio tour begins at Coors Field, home of the Colorado Rockies, located in Lower Downtown.
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Stop 2
Visit Union Station, whose granite facade was Denver’s strategic response to the transcontinental railroad, nearly bypassing the city.
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Stop 3
Walk down the 16th Street Mall, designed by I.M. Pei, which remains the bustling heart of downtown Denver.
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Stop 4
Explore Larimer Square, Denver’s oldest block. Saved from demolition in the 1960s when Dana Crawford bought it after her car broke down there.
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Stop 5
Finish at the Federal Reserve Bank, where a free museum lets you see currency being processed and take home shredded cash as a souvenir.
Meeting point & pickup
Meet at the starting point
This tour begins at Coors Field. Before starting, install the mobile app and use the code provided on your confirmation ticket. Detailed instructions are available after download.
Open in Google MapsCancellation & confirmation
Free cancellation
Cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled start for a full refund.
- 100% refund if canceled at least 1 day in advance
- No refund if canceled less than 24 hours before
Instant confirmation
Your booking is confirmed immediately after checkout.
From $9.99 per person
- Free cancellation
- Secure checkout with our booking partner
